Main points
- It provides a more spacious view and a slightly higher resolution than the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80.
- It also has a built-in flash and a hot shoe for attaching an external flash.
- However, if you prefer a slightly more compact camera with 4K video recording and a wider ISO range, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 may be a better fit.
In the world of photography, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 and Nikon P900 stand out as two exceptional superzoom bridge cameras. With their impressive zoom capabilities and versatile features, they cater to the needs of both amateur and experienced photographers. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 and Nikon P900, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your next camera.
Sensor and Image Quality
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80: The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 boasts a 18.1-megapixel High-Sensitivity MOS sensor, which provides excellent image quality with sharp details and vibrant colors. Its ISO range extends from 80 to 3200, allowing for clear shots in low-light conditions.
Nikon P900: The Nikon P900 features a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, which also delivers impressive image quality. However, its ISO range is slightly narrower, ranging from 100 to 6400, which may limit its performance in very low-light situations.
Zoom Range and Lens
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80: The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 excels with its incredible 60x optical zoom lens, covering a focal length range of 20-1200mm (35mm equivalent). This remarkable zoom range makes it ideal for capturing distant subjects, wildlife, and sports events.
Nikon P900: The Nikon P900 boasts an even more impressive 83x optical zoom lens, offering a focal length range of 24-2000mm (35mm equivalent). This exceptional zoom capability allows you to get even closer to your subjects, making it an excellent choice for wildlife and nature photography.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80: The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 features a built-in 0.2-inch electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a resolution of 1.166 million dots. It provides a clear and detailed view of your shots, even in bright outdoor conditions. The camera also has a 3.0-inch LCD touchscreen with a resolution of 1.04 million dots, which offers intuitive control and playback capabilities.
Nikon P900: The Nikon P900 has a larger 0.39-inch EVF with a resolution of 921,000 dots. It provides a more spacious view and a slightly higher resolution than the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80. The camera’s 3.0-inch LCD touchscreen has a slightly lower resolution of 921,000 dots.
Autofocus System
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80: The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 utilizes a Depth from Defocus (DFD) autofocus system, which provides fast and accurate focus acquisition. It also features Panasonic’s Contrast AF system for reliable focusing in low-light conditions.
Nikon P900: The Nikon P900 employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection AF. This system offers a balance of speed and accuracy, ensuring sharp images even in challenging lighting situations.
Video Capabilities
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80: The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 can record 4K UHD videos at 30 fps and Full HD videos at up to 60 fps. It also supports Panasonic’s 4K Photo mode, which allows you to extract 8-megapixel stills from your videos.
Nikon P900: The Nikon P900 can record Full HD videos at up to 60 fps. It does not have 4K video recording capabilities or a 4K Photo mode.
Connectivity and Features
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80: The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 comes with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily share your images and control your camera remotely. It also has a built-in flash and a hot shoe for attaching an external flash.
Nikon P900: The Nikon P900 also offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a built-in flash. However, it does not have a hot shoe for attaching an external flash.
Takeaways: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 and Nikon P900 are both excellent superzoom bridge cameras with their respective strengths and weaknesses. If you prioritize extreme zoom capabilities, the Nikon P900 with its 83x optical zoom is the clear choice. However, if you prefer a slightly more compact camera with 4K video recording and a wider ISO range, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 may be a better fit. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual photography needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has a larger sensor?
A: The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 has a larger 18.1-megapixel sensor compared to the Nikon P900’s 16-megapixel sensor.
Q: Which camera has a better autofocus system?
A: Both cameras have reliable autofocus systems, but the Nikon P900’s hybrid autofocus system may have a slight edge in speed and accuracy.
Q: Can I use an external flash with both cameras?
A: Yes, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 has a hot shoe for attaching an external flash, while the Nikon P900 does not.